pankreasgången

The pancreatic duct, known in Swedish as the pankreasgången, is a vital part of the digestive system. It is a tube that runs the length of the pancreas and carries digestive enzymes from the pancreas to the small intestine. These enzymes are crucial for breaking down food, particularly fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. The pancreatic duct begins in the tail of the pancreas and extends through the head, where it typically merges with the common bile duct, which carries bile from the liver and gallbladder. Together, they form the ampulla of Vater, which empties into the duodenum, the first section of the small intestine. The flow of pancreatic juice through the duct is regulated by a muscular valve called the sphincter of Oddi. Any obstruction or inflammation of the pancreatic duct can lead to serious health issues, including pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Conditions affecting the pancreatic duct can disrupt digestion and nutrient absorption.